Azacitidine is a tablet that you take by mouth and also available in injection type. It works as follows:- 

Azacitidine is a medication that works against certain types of cancer by mimicking a natural substance found in cells. It's thought to have several ways of fighting cancer cells. Firstly, it directly affects abnormal blood cells in the bone marrow by becoming part of their DNA and RNA, which can stop their growth. Secondly, it blocks an enzyme called DNA methyltransferase, which leads to changes in how genes are controlled. This can help restore normal function to genes that are important for cell growth and development. Azacitidine tends to work better on cells that are actively growing and dividing. However, it's still not entirely clear whether its effects on DNA or its direct toxicity to cells are more important for treating cancer.

Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist

Primary uses are to treat Myelodysplastic syndromes, Leukemia, acute myeloid.

Research studies are going on this drug to check if this medicine can be used to treat other type of cancer. 

Visit our Research Division Doctors in Online Consults for more details.

If you miss Azacitidine (Tablet):- 

If you miss a dose of azacitidine, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is more than 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing times. Do NOT take more than one dose to make up for the missed dose. Tell your healthcare team at your next visit that you have missed a dose.

If you vomit the dose of azacitidine, do not take a second dose. Skip the dose and go back to your usual dosing times the next day. Call your healthcare team during office hours for advice as a medication to prevent nausea may be required for future doses.

If you miss Azacitidine (Injection):- 

Consult our Oncology Clinical Specialist. 

 Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Pharmacist

Anemia, Low white blood cell count, Low platelet count, Constipation, Nausea, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Fatigue, Fever, Injection site reactions, Loss of appetite, Dizziness, Headache, Shortness of breath.

Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist

Other drugs are not expected to interact with azacitidine. To know more about the drug interactions book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist

Azacitidine may affect fertility in men. If you plan to have children, discuss this with your doctor before being treated with azacitidine.

Azacitidine may damage sperm and may harm the baby if used during pregnancy. It is best to use birth control while being treated with azacitidine and for six months after your treatment has ended. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Do not breastfeed during treatment.

Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist